New Delhi: Presenting gallantry awards posthumously to family members of fallen soldiers is always a sombre moment for India and Indians during Republic Day celebrations. On Friday, it was the turn of President Ram Nath Kovind to present one such honour - and he was left visibly emotional.

President Kovind, attending Republic Day celebrations for the first time as Head of State - presented the Ashok Chakra to the wife and mother of Late Air Force Commando JP Nirala. The braveheart had shown exemplary courage during the Bandipora encounter in November of last year. Part of a joint operation against terrorists, he threw caution to the wind and fought with valour. Unfortunately, he was eventually wounded and he succumbed to his injuries.